Philippines tilts towards Russia and China carry risk

Significance

This is part of his desire for an 'independent' foreign policy, which includes Manila distancing itself from Washington and seeking closer economic and military ties with China and Russia.

Impacts

• Philippine purchases of Chinese and Russian arms will probably grow.
• Future US military aid to the Philippines may be curtailed or cancelled.
• China will provide more financing support for the Duterte administration's infrastructure development plans.
• Closer ties with Beijing and Moscow may reduce Manila's interest in joining the US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership.
• The mid-November APEC Summit in Peru provides further opportunity for Duterte to meet Russian and Chinese leaders.